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Bitcoin Halving: A History of Economics Shift & Financial Independence – Crypto Times

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Bitcoin Halving, a much-anticipated event in the crypto ecosystem, is being monitored closely by crypto enthusiasts across the globe as the price of the super volatile currency Bitcoin (BTC) is expected to set new benchmarks.

A short history of halving has shown us that the price of BTC and other cryptocurrencies have grown exponentially in a short time post the halving event. Trade analysts say that the halving events have the potential to disrupt markets, surge or plunge digital currencies and bring a shift in the economics of the crypto ecosystem.

In this article, we look at the history of halving and how the events unfolded to take BTC to newer heights through bullish sentiments and innovations.

Halving is a programmed event where the reward for mining BTC gets slashed by 50% for every new block created by the miners. As per the algorithm developed by makers of BTC and blockchain technology, a total of 21 million BTCs could ever be generated and the fee for generating BTCs and creating blocks gets reduced by %)% every time a total of 2,10,000 blocks are formed, which usually takes four years. Such a mechanism was introduced to remain intact the scarce value of BTC through controlled demand and supply.

Since its launch in 2009, Bitcoin has experienced three halving events, occurring approximately every four years. The first was in 2012, followed by 2016, 2020, and the upcoming in 2024.

The first Bitcoin halving took place after the network had confirmed 210,000 blocks, resulting in miners rewards being reduced from 50 to 25 BTC per block. At the moment of the halving, Bitcoin was priced at approximately $12 in the market. Following the halving, a bullish trend emerged, propelling Bitcoins price to $1,000 by the subsequent year.

The second Bitcoin halving occurred on July 9, 2016, at block 420,000, reducing the block reward to 12.5 BTC, coinciding with a market price of around $650. Following this event, Bitcoin witnessed another significant surge in value, with its price soaring to almost $20,000 within the subsequent 18 months, marking an extraordinary increase of 3,000%.

Following the third Bitcoin halving on May 11, 2020, occurring at block 630,000 and reducing the block reward to 6.25 BTC, the cryptocurrency demonstrated remarkable resilience amidst global economic uncertainty, with its price experiencing a surge. By April 2021, Bitcoin surpassed $69,000, reflecting an impressive 690% increase from its pre-halving value, which was approximately $9,000.

The upcoming fourth halving of Bitcoin is expected to occur on 19th April 2024, marked by the 840,000th block and a reward reduced to 3.125 BTC. At the current trading price of approximately $70,000, there is anticipation for a substantial surge in value post-halving.

Although the exact price surge is challenging to predict, historical patterns suggest a significant upward momentum, potentially propelling Bitcoin to new highs, with projections ranging from surpassing $100,000 to reaching $200,000 in the subsequent years, fueled by increasing institutional adoption and mainstream acceptance.

Based on the historical data available, there appears to be a diminishing rate of increase in Bitcoins price following each halving event, with the growth rate reducing by a factor of approximately 3.5 to 3.9 compared to the previous halving cycle.

Applying this observed pattern, one might infer that for the 2024 halving, Bitcoins price could potentially experience an uptick of around 200% from its trough.

However, its essential to recognize that past performance is not indicative of future results, and various factors can influence Bitcoins price dynamics, including market sentiment, adoption trends, regulatory developments, and macroeconomic conditions.

Presently, the circulating supply of Bitcoins exceeds 19 million, leaving less than 2 million BTC to be mined before reaching the maximum cap of 21 million. Nevertheless, due to the mechanism of Bitcoin halving, the process of mining these remaining 2 million Bitcoins will extend over approximately a century.

The final Bitcoin halving is projected to occur in the year 2140, coinciding with the completion of the mining of the entire 21 million BTC supply.

As we near Bitcoins fourth halving, the crypto community is on the edge, eagerly waiting for the changes it will bring. With each halving, Bitcoin solidifies its status as the digital equivalent of gold, its limited supply mirroring that of precious metals.

History shows us that after these events, Bitcoin often experiences dramatic price increases, challenging traditional market rules. But beyond its financial gains, Bitcoin represents something more profound: a decentralized ideal, offering financial freedom in an uncertain world.

As we look ahead to the post-2024 halving landscape, one thing is clear: Bitcoins story is just beginning. Its a testament to human innovation, a revolutionary force capable of reshaping economies, empowering individuals, and transforming our understanding of money itself.

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Bitcoin Halving: A History of Economics Shift & Financial Independence - Crypto Times

RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson’s Son Josh Waring Has Passed Away at 35, See Her Sweet Tribute to Him – Reality Blurb

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Very heartbreaking news to report asJosh Waring, the son of the Real Housewives of Orange County alum Lauri Peterson, has passed away at the age of 35.

Just moments ago, Lauri took to her Instagram page to announce that Josh died on Easter Sunday.

It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday, shared Lauri on April 6.

She continued, No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss. Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great.

Lauri then went on to describe the kind of person Josh was.

Even during adult hardship, Josh continued to maintain his sense of humor, continued to be optimistic, continued to be kind to others, defended those that were unable to defend themselves and continued to love his family so so much! He received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years, she wrote.

Lauri also shed some light on substance abuse issues, something Josh struggled with throughout his adult life in addition to his run-ins with the law, as she thanked those who tried to help him over the years.

Thank you to all of the people that have tried to help Josh along the way. I am witness to many Angels on earth. Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness, shared Lauri.

Lastly, she shared some sweet words for her son.

She wrote, Josh I love you so much and I will miss you terribly! I will forever be your Mama Bear & Mama Dukes and every time the clock turns to 11:11, I will expect your call to tell me to make a wish! What will I wish for now? My heart is with you and I pray you have found the peace that you so deserve. Heaven has gained the coolest angel and you have gained your freedom at last sweet boy. Love always and forever, Mom Joshua-Michael Phillip Waring 12/20/88-3/31/24.

Lauri welcomed Josh in 1988, followed by daughters Ashley and Sophie. Josh is also survived by his young daughter, 11-yr-old Kennady.

RIP Joshua.

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RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson's Son Josh Waring Has Passed Away at 35, See Her Sweet Tribute to Him - Reality Blurb

Study documents safety, improvements from stem cell therapy after spinal cord injury – Mayo Clinic

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Neurosciences

April 1, 2024

ROCHESTER, Minn. A Mayo Clinic study shows stem cells derived from patients' own fat are safe and may improve sensation and movement after traumatic spinal cord injuries. The findings from the phase 1 clinical trial appear in Nature Communications. The results of this early research offer insights on the potential of cell therapy for people living with spinal cord injuries and paralysis for whom options to improve function are extremely limited.

In the study of 10 adults, the research team noted seven participants demonstrated improvements based on the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. Improvements included increased sensation when tested with pinprick and light touch, increased strength in muscle motor groups, and recovery of voluntary anal contraction, which aids in bowel function. The scale has five levels, ranging from complete loss of function to normal function. The seven participants who improved each moved up at least one level on the ASIA scale. Three patients in the study had no response, meaning they did not improve but did not get worse.

"This study documents the safety and potential benefit of stem cells and regenerative medicine," says Mohamad Bydon, M.D., a Mayo Clinic neurosurgeon and first author of the study. "Spinal cord injury is a complex condition. Future research may show whether stem cells in combination with other therapies could be part of a new paradigm of treatment to improve outcomes for patients."

No serious adverse events were reported after stem cell treatment. The most commonly reported side effects were headache and musculoskeletal pain that resolved with over-the-counter treatment.

In addition to evaluating safety, this phase 1 clinical trial had a secondary outcome of assessing changes in motor and sensory function. The authors note that motor and sensory results are to be interpreted with caution given limits of phase 1 trials. Additional research is underway among a larger group of participants to further assess risks and benefits.

The full data on the 10 patients follows a 2019 case report that highlighted the experience of the first study participant who demonstrated significant improvement in motor and sensory function.

Watch: Dr. Mohamad Bydon discusses improvements in research study

Journalists: Broadcast-quality sound bites are available in the downloads at the end of the post. Please courtesy: "Mayo Clinic News Network." Name super/CG: Mohamad Bydon, M.D./Neurosurgery/Mayo Clinic.

In the multidisciplinary clinical trial, participants had spinal cord injuries from motor vehicle accidents, falls and other causes. Six had neck injuries; four had back injuries. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 65.

Participants' stem cells were collected by taking a small amount of fat from a 1- to 2-inch incision in the abdomen or thigh. Over four weeks, the cells were expanded in the laboratory to 100 million cells and then injected into the patients' lumbar spine in the lower back. Over two years, each study participant was evaluated at Mayo Clinic 10 times.

Although it is understood that stem cells move toward areas of inflammation in this case the location of the spinal cord injury the cells' mechanism of interacting with the spinal cord is not fully understood, Dr. Bydon says. As part of the study, researchers analyzed changes in participants' MRIs and cerebrospinal fluid as well as in responses to pain, pressure and other sensation. The investigators are looking for clues to identify injury processes at a cellular level and avenues for potential regeneration and healing.

The spinal cord has limited ability to repair its cells or make new ones. Patients typically experience most of their recovery in the first six to 12 months after injuries occur. Improvement generally stops 12 to 24 months after injury. In the study, one patient with a cervical spine injury of the neck received stem cells 22 months after injury and improved one level on the ASIA scale after treatment.

Two of three patients with complete injuries of the thoracic spine meaning they had no feeling or movement below their injury between the base of the neck and mid-back moved up two ASIA levels after treatment. Each regained some sensation and some control of movement below the level of injury. Based on researchers' understanding of traumatic thoracic spinal cord injury, only 5% of people with a complete injury would be expected to regain any feeling or movement.

"In spinal cord injury, even a mild improvement can make a significant difference in that patient's quality of life," Dr. Bydon says.

Stem cells are used mainly in research in the U.S., and fat-derived stem cell treatment for spinal cord injury is considered experimental by the Food and Drug Administration.

Between 250,000 and 500,000 people worldwide suffer a spinal cord injury each year, according to theWorld Health Organization.

An important next step is assessing the effectiveness of stem cell therapies and subsets of patients who would most benefit, Dr. Bydon says. Research is continuing with a larger, controlled trial that randomly assigns patients to receive either the stem cell treatment or a placebo without stem cells.

"For years, treatment of spinal cord injury has been limited to supportive care, more specifically stabilization surgery and physical therapy," Dr. Bydon says. "Many historical textbooks state that this condition does not improve. In recent years, we have seen findings from the medical and scientific community that challenge prior assumptions. This research is a step forward toward the ultimate goal of improving treatments for patients."

Dr. Bydon is the Charles B. and Ann L. Johnson Professor of Neurosurgery. This research was made possible with support from Leonard A. Lauder, C and A Johnson Family Foundation, The Park Foundation, Sanger Family Foundation, Eileen R.B. and Steve D. Scheel, Schultz Family Foundation, and other generous Mayo Clinic benefactors. The research is funded in part by a Mayo Clinic Transform the Practice grant.

Review thestudyfor a complete list of authors and funding.

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About Mayo Clinic Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization committed to innovation in clinical practice, education and research, and providing compassion, expertise and answers to everyone who needs healing. Visit theMayo Clinic News Networkfor additional Mayo Clinic news.

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Study documents safety, improvements from stem cell therapy after spinal cord injury - Mayo Clinic

Macau casinos equal post-pandemic revenue record in March – iGaming Business

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Gambling revenue in Macau reached MOP19.50bn (1.02bn/2.25bn/$2.42bn) in March, the joint highest monthly total since before the pandemic.

Revenue was 53.1% higher thanMarch last yearand 5.4% ahead of MOP18.49 in Macau in February. The figure also equalled the post-pandemic high of MOP19.50bn that was posted inOctober 2023.

While this is good news for the region, Macaus casinos remain some way behind pre-Covid levels. Before the pandemic started, the Special Administrative Region would regularly produce monthly revenue in the mid MOP20.00bn range.

Revenue has not exceeded MOP20.00bn since January 2020, shortly before the pandemic started and restrictions were imposed.

Looking at the year to date, revenue in the first three months of 2024 reached MOP57.33bn. This is 65.5% ahead of MOP34.64bn at the same point in 2023.

It is also comfortably more than the MOP42.40bn generated inall of 2022. Full-year revenue for 2023 amounted toMOP183.1bn a 333.8% year-on-year increase.

Macau has been free of pandemic-related restrictions since January 2023 after China ended its zero-Covid policy.

This post-pandemic recovery is likely to continue in 2024. Last month, Fitch Ratings affirmed Macaus AA long-term foreign currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR), predicting the regions gaming industry torecover to nearly 80% of pre-pandemic levels in 2024.

Fitch also gave Macau a stable outlook as the regions economy continues to rebound from the pandemic.

Gross gaming revenue is forecast to be around 79.5% of 2019 levels in 2024, compared to 62.6% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Fitch is predicting revenue to be 7.6% higher than assumed in the budget.

Several leading Macau casino operators said the decision to remove pandemic measures helped their performances in 2023.

Among these brands isGalaxy Entertainment Group, which reported a 211.0% increase in revenue to HKD35.68bn. This, it said, was driven by the full reopening of the Macau market. Revenue at the Galaxy Macau alone rocketed 274.3% year-on-year in 2023, with gaming revenue here up 312.1%.

Elsewhere,Wynn Resortsalso said that this reopening boosted the business during 2023. Operations in Macau accounted for $3.10bn of all revenue up 329.7% year-on-year. Group revenue was 73.9% higher at $6.53bn.

Furthermore, Fitch pointed to Macaus strong rebound after the pandemic in predicting apositive financial outlook for Wynnin the longer term.

Also benefitting was MGM Resorts International, which reported a 23.7% rise in revenue to $16.20bn for 2023. MGM noted significant growth in Macau, with revenue rocketing 368.1% to $3.15bn.

Last week, MGM CEO and president Bill Hornbuckle attended the China Development Forum alongside a number of leading US executives to discuss the countrys relationship with China.

MGM Resorts International has been proud of our role in supporting US-China relations through increased bilateral travel and tourism, Hornbuckle said in aLinkedIn post. I was honoured to be part of the meeting convened by President Xi to discuss how to use these ties to strengthen the US-China relationship.

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Macau casinos equal post-pandemic revenue record in March - iGaming Business

NASA’s Hubble Telescope Captures "Last Gasp" Of Dying Binary Star System – NDTV

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NGC 2346 resides in the constellation Monoceros, NASA said.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) regularly captures stunning images of our universe, leaving space lovers mesmerized. The social media handles of the US Space Agency are a treasure trove for those who love to watch educational videos and fascinating images showcasing Earth and space. Now, in its recent post, the agency's Hubble Space Telescope shared a picture of the "last gasp" of a dying binary star system.

"At the center of the nebula NGC 2346 is a pair of stars that are so close together that they orbit around each other every 16 days! This #HubbleClassic shows the "last gasp" of this binary star system as it dies. Located about 2,000 light-years away, NGC 2346 resides in the constellation Monoceros." NASA said while sharing the image.

It is to be noted that NGC 2346 is a so-called "planetary nebula," which is ejected from Sun-like stars which are near the ends of their lives.

The central star of NGC 2346 is believed to be a relatively near pair of stars that orbit each other every 16 days, which makes the galaxy unusual. It is thought that the binary star was initially farther apart. But one of the binary's components essentially swallowed its companion star as it developed, grew larger, and became a red-giant star.

Subsequently, the companion star spiralled downwards inside the red giant, releasing gas into a ring surrounding the binary system. Later, a faster stellar wind arose perpendicular to the ring and inflated two enormous "bubbles" when the red giant's hot core was revealed. "This two-stage process is believed to have resulted in the butterfly-like shape of the nebula. NGC 2346 lies about 2,000 light-years away from us, and is about one-third of a light-year in size," the European Space Agency explained.

In the image, a two-lobed structure of gas is seen expanding out from a central pinkish region. It almost resembles dark red and orange wings. The black background of the space is dotted with some small stars.

Since being shared, the post has amassed over 58,000 likes and several reactions on the platform.

"Lovely," said a user.

"Hubble is cool," stated another user.

A third user said, "The science is so amazing"

"Wow," remarked a person.

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NASA's Hubble Telescope Captures "Last Gasp" Of Dying Binary Star System - NDTV

Oppo’s Air Glass 3 Smart Glasses Have an AI Assistant and Better Visuals – CNET

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Oppo is emphasizing the "smart" aspect of smart glasses with its latest prototype, the Air Glass 3, which the Chinese tech giant announced Monday at Mobile World Congress 2024.

The new glasses can be used to interact with Oppo's AI assistant, signaling yet another effort by a major tech company to integrate generative AI into more gadgets following the success of ChatGPT. The Air Glass 3 prototype is compatible with Oppo phones running the company's ColorOS 13 operating system and later, meaning it'll probably be exclusive to the company's own phones. Oppo didn't mention pricing or a potential release date for the Air Glass 3 in its press release, which is typical of gadgets that are in the prototype stage.

Read more: Microsoft Is Using AI to Stop Phone Scammers From Tricking You

The glasses can access a voice assistant that's based on Oppo's AndesGPT large language model, which is essentially the company's answer to ChatGPT. But the eyewear will need to be connected to a smartphone app in order for it to work, likely because the processing power is too demanding to be executed on a lightweight pair of glasses. Users would be able to use the voice assistant to ask questions and perform searches, although Oppo notes that the AI helper is only available in China.

Following the rapid rise of OpenAI's ChatGPT, generative AI has begun to show up in everything from productivity apps to search engines to smartphone software. Oppo is one of several companies -- along with TCL and Meta -- that believe smart glasses are the next place users will want to engage with AI-powered helpers. Mixed reality has been in the spotlight thanks to the launch of Apple's Vision Pro headset in early 2024.

Like the company's previous smart glasses, the Air Glass 3 looks just like a pair of spectacles, according to images provided by Oppo. But the company says it's developed a new resin waveguide that it claims can reduce the so-called "rainbow effect" that can occur when light refracts as it passes through.

Waveguides are the part of the smart glasses that relays virtual images to the eye, as smart glasses maker Vuzix explains. If the glasses live up to Oppo's claims, they should offer improved color and clarity. The glasses can also reach over 1,000 nits at peak brightness, Oppo says, which is almost as bright as some smartphone displays.

Watch this: Motorola's Rollable Concept Phone Wraps on Your Wrist

Oppo's Air Glass 3 prototype weighs 50 grams, making it similar to a pair of standard glasses, although on the heavier side. According to glasses retailer Glasses.com, the majority of glasses weigh between 25 to 50 grams, with lightweight models weighing as low as 6 grams.

Oppo is also touting the glasses' audio quality, saying it uses a technique known as reverse sound field technology to prevent sound leakage in order to keep calls private. There are also four microphones embedded in the glasses -- which Oppo says is a first -- for capturing the user's voice more clearly during phone calls.

There are touch sensors along the side of the glasses for navigation, and Oppo says you'll be able to use the glasses for tasks like viewing photos, making calls and playing music. New features will be added in the future, such as viewing health information and language translation.

With the Air Glass 3, Oppo is betting big on two major technologies gaining a lot of buzz in the tech world right now: generative AI and smart glasses. Like many of its competitors, it'll have to prove that high-tech glasses are useful enough to earn their place on your face. And judging by the Air Glass 3, it sees AI as being part of that.

Editors' note: CNET is using an AI engine to help create some stories. For more, seethis post.

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Oppo's Air Glass 3 Smart Glasses Have an AI Assistant and Better Visuals - CNET

Priority bills in Nebraska Legislature aim at health care – Omaha World-Herald

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LINCOLN Near the halfway point of this years legislative session, every Nebraska lawmaker has named their personal priority bill that will set the tone for the remaining 31 days.

Roughly a dozen state senators named health care issues as their priorities, while several others emphasized workforce development and tax reform. Also among the priority bills are a handful that may foreshadow a return to the rancorous debates seen last year.

Lawmakers had until Thursday to name their one personal priority bill for the session. Legislative committees had the same deadline to name up to two priority bills, and over this weekend, Speaker of the Legislature John Arch is considering what 25 bills will be his speaker priorities for the year.

Priority bills are generally given preference by the speaker when scheduling the daily agendas for floor debates. Now that all individual and committee priority bills have been named, Arch said those measures will start coming up more frequently.

From here on out, it will almost exclusively be priority bills on the floor, Arch said.

Health care rose to the top as one of the most popular subjects prioritized this session, including bills to close an insurance loophole for colonoscopies, establish a prescription drug donation program, and expand services for mothers at risk of adverse birth outcomes.

Leading into the session, many lawmakers pinned tax reform and workforce development solutions such as affordable housing, education and child care improvements as top issues for the Legislature to focus on this year.

Those issues came up on the priority list as well, particularly among committee priority bills. Among individual priorities, however, they were a bit more scarce. There is a bill from State Sen. John Fredrickson of Omaha to subsidize child care for child care workers, a bill from Sen. Robert Clements of Elmwood to eliminate the inheritance tax, and a bill from Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln to eliminate barriers to obtaining work licenses.

Conrad said she considers the high number of health care bills as part of the push to pass workforce development proposals. She said that health care is directly tied to workforce challenges and that the prioritized health care bills would help Nebraskas working families.

Overall, Conrad said she was happy with what bills were prioritized this year, saying they help reset the tone from the drama-filled debates that ate up much of last years session. Lawmakers are leaning back into the Legislatures nonpartisan structure, she said, which helps with collaboration on policies that will help Nebraskans most.

Its how its supposed to be in the Nebraska Legislature, Conrad said.

However, there are still several priority bills that are likely to turn into a fight if they make it to floor debates. Most notably, there is Legislative Bill 575, dubbed the Sports and Spaces Act, introduced and prioritized by Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha. The bill would restrict access to K-12 school bathrooms and locker rooms on the basis of biological sex and would add similar restrictions to most school sports teams.

Last year, Kauth prioritized LB 574, which restricted access to gender-affirming care for people under 19. An amendment late in the session also tightened Nebraskas abortion restrictions to 12 weeks, and the combination measure passed. It was the most contentious bill of the session, and was the reason for a session-long filibuster led by one of the bills opponents. Kauth said she expects LB 575 to also be filibustered if it gets to the floor.

The bill has been stuck in committee since last year, but Kauth said she isnt concerned. She said lawmakers are holding the bill in committee until the Legislature gets closer to all-day floor debates, which begin in March. That way, if the bill gets filibustered, its less likely to take up multiple days for each of its three rounds, she said.

Arch said he plans to spread out the controversial priority bills in his agenda scheduling, mixing simpler bills in between to give lawmakers time to negotiate. Part of the challenge of the speakers job, he said, is anticipating how much time is needed for each agenda item.

You cant just back up difficult bills and run them back to back, Arch said.

Another possible floor fight is expected on LB 1009, introduced and prioritized by Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston. The bill would adjust the abortion restrictions passed last year to add an exception for cases of fatal fetal anomalies, and clarify that women who receive abortions cannot be charged with criminal penalties.

Riepe proposed a 12-week abortion ban last year as an amendment to a measure that would have set Nebraskas abortion restrictions at six weeks. After that bill failed, other senators drafted an amendment to add a 12-week abortion ban to LB 574. Riepe voted to support it, but he says he didnt like the legislation that passed and blames himself for not working harder to fix it.

Riepe has made it clear that LB 1009 doesnt relate to elective abortions, but instead makes it possible for expectant mothers to receive abortions if two physicians agree that her pregnancy isnt viable. He said many women dont learn about fatal fetal anomalies until after the 12-week mark, and says it isnt fair to expect them to carry their pregnancies to term when they know the outcome.

State government is not the place to have a law on this, Riepe said.

Although Riepe framed his bill as a reasonable alternative between easing Nebraskas abortion laws and restricting them further, he said he doesnt expect to see much support from either side of the debate. Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston, who has led the charge for increased abortion restrictions in the Legislature, has said she opposes LB 1009, but Riepe said he hopes to find support from other conservative lawmakers.

Other highlights of this years priority bills include:

Obscenity LB 441, introduced and prioritized by Albrecht, would repeal an existing exemption from prosecution, thus making it possible for people working in K-12 schools to be charged with a misdemeanor if they provide obscene materials to minors.

Felons LB 20, introduced by Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha and prioritized by Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln, would restore voting rights for people convicted of felonies once they complete their sentence.

Sex trafficking Constitutional amendment, LR 277CA, introduced and prioritized by Sen. Rita Sanders of Bellevue, would give Nebraska voters the opportunity to set a minimum life sentence for people convicted of sex or labor trafficking of a minor. All constitutional amendments, once passed by the Legislature, are put on the ballot and require voter approval before taking effect.

Scholarships LB 1402, introduced and prioritized by Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Omaha area, would appropriate $25 million to be distributed in grants to scholarship-granting organizations that help students attend private and parochial schools.

Last year, Linehan introduced LB 753, which appropriated funds for tax credits to go to individuals and entities that donated to similar scholarship-granting organizations. That bill, which eventually passed the Legislature, is facing a possible repeal through a voter referendum, but LB 1402 would nullify that effort. Linehan said if LB 1402 passes, she would support a repeal of LB 753.

National Guard LB 1394, introduced and prioritized by Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, would exempt Nebraska National Guard members from income taxes they incur through payments they received on duty.

Nebraska State Poet Matt Mason poses for a portrait in his home in Omaha on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024.

Omaha Bryan's Abdrirahman Unle jumps into the arms of coach Jason Susnja after pinning North Plate's Tyler Haneborg for during the Class A 113-pound championship match at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024.

Omaha Skutt's Kaylyn Harrill, left, wrestles Columbus Lakeview's Lacy Lemburg during the Girls 120-pound championship match at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024.

Millard West's Enrique Haynes celebrates his win over Omaha Creighton Prep's Presden Sanchez in the Class A 120-pound championship match at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024.

Auburn's Ayden Smith, facing, and Bennington's Lane Welchert compete in the first round of the Class B 106-pound match in the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Grand Island's Kim Gonzalez, right, and Pierce's Maggie Painter compete in the first round of the girls 120-pound match in the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Battle Creek's Ashton Kuchar, facing, and Hi-Line's Parker Schutz compete in the second round of the Class C 126-pound match in the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Omaha North's Joshyonna Coppage-Dortch and Chadron's Josey Werner compete in the first round of the girls 100-pound match in the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Beatrice's Tristan Reinke, left, wrestles Bennington's Brodee Scobee during the first round of the Class B 132-pound match during the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Lincoln North Star's Colton Hauschild celebrates his win over Bellevue East's Dillon Ginter during the first round of the Class A 165-pound match during the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Hershey's Ethan Elliott, right, tries to pin North Bend Central's Zac Mullally during the first round of the Class C132 -pound match during the state wrestling championships at the CHI Health Center in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Iowa's Caitlin Clark (22) reacts while answering questions from the media in the post game press conference after the Hawkeyes were defeated by Nebraska, 82-79, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024.

Nebraska's Alexis Markowski (40) embraces her father, Andy, after the Huskers defeated Iowa, 82-79, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024.

Nebraska players celebrate with fans after defeating Iowa, 82-79, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024.

Nebraska's Jacob Van Dee celebrates his win over Michigan's Dylan Ragusin during a 133-pound match at the Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024.

Nebraska's Caleb Smith picks up Michigan's Michael DeAugustino during a 125-pound match at the Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024.

Nebraska's Caleb Smith top. wrestles Michigan's Michael DeAugustino during a 125-pound match at the Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024.

Community members and politicians walk along 24th Street during a Martin Luther King Jr. Keep the Dream Alive March in Omaha on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024. The walk was postponed by weather from MLK Day in January.

The sun rises over Lake Wanahoo outside Wahoo on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024.

David Wright, of Bellevue, and his son Michael Wright, of Papillion, ice fish in an insulated shelter on Lake Wanahoo outside Wahoo on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. You can spend time with your friends, family," David Wright said. "Its not so much about the fishing."

Creighton's Steven Ashworth (1) wipes the sweat from his face late in the second half against Butler at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Butler's Augusto Cassi (0), left, and Finley Bizjack (13) celebrate an upset of Creighton at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Butler's Jahmyl Telfort (11), left, and Andre Screen (23) try to steal the ball from Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Creighton's Steven Ashworth (1) celebrates a three-point basket against Butler at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Butler's Finley Bizjack (13) chases a loose ball in the second half against Creighton at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Creighton's Baylor Scheierman (55), right, helps Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) after they lost to Butler at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Creighton fans react to a Butler basket in the second half at CHI Health Center Omaha on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

Omaha's Marquel Sutton (10) gets ready for a shot against St. Thomas at Baxter Arena in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024.

Omaha takes on St. Thomas at Baxter Arena in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024.

Omaha's Marquel Sutton (10) looks to pass the ball around St. Thomass Brooks Allen (4) at Baxter Arena in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024.

Looking north on 13th Street from Hickey Street in the Little Bohemia neighborhood toward downtown Omaha.

Doug Harold works at the Tomasek Machine Shop located at 1631 S 13th St.

Doug Harold works at the Tomasek Machine Shop located at 1631 S 13th St.

Wrestlers warm up with jump ropes during practice at Omaha Bryan High School in Omaha on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024. Omaha Bryan will be in the state duals for the first time in program history

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Priority bills in Nebraska Legislature aim at health care - Omaha World-Herald

SpaceX stacks giant Starship rocket ahead of 3rd test flight (video, photos) – Space.com

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SpaceX's third Starship megarocket is standing tall ahead of its upcoming test flight.

SpaceX recently stacked the enormous vehicle on the orbital launch mount at its Starbase site in South Texas, placing the Ship 28 upper-stage prototype atop its Booster 10 first-stage partner.

"Starship team is preparing for a full launch rehearsal ahead of Flight 3," SpaceX wrote in a post on X today (Feb. 13) that shared photos of the milestone. In another post, the company published a short video of the stacking, which was performed by the "chopstick" arms of Starbase's launch tower.

Related:See stunning photos and video of Starship's 2nd launch

Flight 3 will likely occur about three weeks from now, according to SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk, provided the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration awards a launch license in time.

The first two test flights of Starship, the biggest and most powerful rocket ever built, occurred in April and November of last year.

Both missions ended in the explosive death of Starship, though the vehicle notched some important milestones on Flight 2.

For example, the 33 Raptor engines of Starship's first stage aced their initial burn on the November missions, and the booster separated seamlessly from the upper-stage spacecraft.

Both of Starship's stainless-steel stages are designed to be fully and rapidly reusable. SpaceX is developing the 400-foot-tall (122 meters) megarocket to take people and payloads to the moon and Mars, as well as conduct other operations closer to home including, potentially, carrying people on superfast trips here Earth.

SpaceX has already signed NASA up as a customer: The space agency picked Starship to be the first crewed lander for its Artemis program of moon exploration. If all goes according to plan, Starship will put NASA astronauts down near the lunar south pole for the first time in September 2026, on the Artemis 3 mission.

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SpaceX stacks giant Starship rocket ahead of 3rd test flight (video, photos) - Space.com

‘Death Stranding 2: On the Beach’ looks even more baffling than the original game – Engadget

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As expected, the PlayStation State of Play today featured an in-depth look at the latest from famed developer Hideo Kojima, in the form of an exceedingly creepy and cinematic preview of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Sam, played by Norman Reedus, is back in a trailer that makes very little sense if you haven't played the first game and even if you did, the contents of this preview might not make a ton of sense. Rest assured, you'll still be running around wildly impressive landscapes with your giant yellow backpack.

But it sounds like you won't actually have to run around delivering things, because bots are able to do that in this world. The real surprise is when Sam gets captured and runs across his brother, played by the ubiquitous Troy Baker... who pulls out a guitar/gun and starts shredding to take on some enemies? Sure. It'll still be a bit before we see what this all amounts to, as it doesn't arrive until sometime in 2025.

At the end of the stream, though, Kojima teased an all-new project in the works, though it won't be entering full production until after Death Stranding 2 is complete.

Correction, 1/31/24, 6PM ET: This post originally stated this was our first look at Death Stranding 2.We've updated it to say this is our first in-depth look, as the game was first announced in December of 2022.

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'Death Stranding 2: On the Beach' looks even more baffling than the original game - Engadget

2023 BLACKJACK BALL: THE INSIDE SCOOP PART 1 BY HENRY TAMBURIN – Las Vegas Advisor

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This post is syndicated by the Las Vegas Advisor for the 888 casino group. Anthony Curtis comments on the 888 article introduced and linked to on this page.

AC Says:

Youve probably heard of the Blackjack Ball, the annual gathering of many of the worlds top blackjack pros, during which theres a vote for Blackjack Hall of Fame induction and a skills contest to name the Worlds Greatest Blackjack Player. Thereve been many articles written about the Ball, but no one covers it like Henry Tamburin. In Part 1 of his summary of the 26thgathering, Henry goes into detail about thisyears HoF nominees, the betting Calcutta that takes place before the skills contest, and the written test thats part of the competition. Its a fascinating event that not many get to experience in person, but this account is the next best thing to being there.

This article was written by Henry Tamburin in association with 888Casino.

For the second consecutive year, the 26th Blackjack Ball was held at one of the unique buildings in Las Vegas, the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. (See photo of its unique and distinct architecture.) The building contains a large ballroom that could easily

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2023 BLACKJACK BALL: THE INSIDE SCOOP PART 1 BY HENRY TAMBURIN - Las Vegas Advisor

The Latest News on Meme Coins | Navigating the Meme Coin Hype in 2023 with Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, Pepe Coin, and … – Finbold – Finance in Bold

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This post is sponsored and not a part of Finbold's editorial content. For a full disclaimer, please . If you encounter any issues, kindly report them to [emailprotected]. Crypto assets/products can be highly risky. Never invest unless youre prepared to lose all the money you invest.

The cryptocurrency market is experiencing a surge of optimism, fueled by recent positive developments, while the ever-growing popularity of meme coins persists. These digital tokens, inspired by internet memes and cultural trends, are captivating both experienced crypto users and newcomers alike.

This article aims to demystify the world of meme coins, providing an informative overview for crypto users of all levels. Well explore the current market landscape, analyze the top contenders, and dissect the risks and potential rewards associated with these unique crypto coins.

What are Meme Coins? | Understanding the Hype

Unlike Bitcoin or other altcoins, memecoins ride the wave of humor and community. While first wave meme coins such as Dogecoin may have lacked inherent utility, more recent altcoins such as ApeMax stands out with its Boost-to-Earn staking utility, allowing coin holders to boost projects or their favorite entities and potentially earn rewards. Its important to note that while all meme coins mix blockchain and fun, they are all different from one another in many ways. In this article well explore some of these particularities of these different meme cryptos.

Meme Coin Market Overview | Current Landscape and Trends

The meme coin market has experienced explosive growth in recent years, with the total market capitalization reaching over $22 billion as of December 2023. This surge is attributed to several factors, including:

The Leading Meme Coins of 2023:

ApeMax (APEMAX)

ApeMax is exploding onto the crypto scene, grabbing peoples attention with its innovative approach to staking. This exciting new meme coin introduces Boost-to-Earn tokenomics, a revolutionary concept that lets holders potentially earn rewards while simultaneously boosting the projects theyre fans of.

Dogecoin (DOGE)

Dogecoin (DOGE) is the grandfather of all meme coins, predating the current trend by several years. Launched in 2013 as a joke, it quickly captured the hearts and minds of internet users with its Shiba Inu mascot and lighthearted approach to cryptocurrency.

Shiba Inu (SHIB)

Often called the Dogecoin killer, Shiba Inu has captured significant attention through its aggressive marketing and loyal community. SHIB has developed a wide ecosystem with several sub-tokens with specific purposes, and it has also recently launched its own Shibarium Layer-2 chain.

Pepe Coin (PEPE)

Pepe Coin is a popular new meme coin, inspired by the iconic Pepe the Frog meme. Pepe Coin implements a token burning mechanism which takes place on each on-chain transaction. This, combined with its strong community and unique branding, has propelled it to become a popular choice in the meme coin space.

What is ApeMax? | A Potential Game Changer in the Meme Coin Space?

With a rapidly growing community, ApeMax has quickly become a hot topic in presale discussions, gaining traction as a potential game-changer in the blockchain and presale space. In its current presale phase, ApeMax boasts an impressive 7,800+ token holders and a staggering 3.5 billion tokens staked. Moreover, eligible buyers during the presale can acquire exclusive discount Loot Boxes for a limited period.

Heres what makes ApeMax stand out:

ApeMax positions itself as a leader in the evolution of crypto presales and staking. Its innovative approach, combined with its passionate community and exciting features, makes it a new coin that new coin buyers are watching.

Whats The Future of Crypto Coins?

The short answer to this complex question is: its impossible to predict with certainty. Crypto is a notoriously volatile market and constantly changing, with new trends and use cases arising every year. However, 2023 has been a recovery year for crypto following a bearish year in 2023. Institutional adoption and a move into the mainstream could be in sight according to some crypto fans. For example, Paypal will soon allow its users to make transactions using cryptocurrencies, and that includes meme coins.

While the future is always unpredictable, Blockchain technology has the power to disrupt various industries, from finance and supply chain to healthcare and governance. These factors, combined with the current bullish market sentiment, could mean that 2024 could be an intriguing year for crypto with new surprises in store. As 2024 is just around the corner, larger meme coins such as Dogecoin and Shiba Inu also continue to remain popular amongst meme coin fans.

Wrapping up 2023 | Positivity Towards a Bullish Market?

The meme coin market has experienced a whirlwind of activity in 2023, captivating peoples hearts and sparking discussions about the future of cryptocurrency. While volatility remains a defining feature, the year has also been marked by new developments, gearing towards a possible crypto bullrun.

Looking forward, meme coins seem likely to remain a crypto staple within the wider altcoin family. The increasing mainstream awareness, adoption by major platforms, and integration with real-world applications are creating a fertile ground for adoption. New meme coins like ApeMax, with their innovative features, are paving the way for a future where meme coins go beyond the realm of hype to offer new and creative forms of utility. It should be noted that this article doesnt serve as financial advice. Thorough personal research is crucial when engaging with meme coins or any kind of cryptocurrency. Its essential to be aware of the high risks associated as well as the volatility inherent to all crypto coins. For those interested in ApeMax coins, verify regional restrictions and buying eligibility rules on the ApeMax official website before proceeding.

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The Latest News on Meme Coins | Navigating the Meme Coin Hype in 2023 with Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, Pepe Coin, and ... - Finbold - Finance in Bold

OpenAI Cofounder Who Pushed Out Sam Altman Is In a Confusing Limbo

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After moving to oust Sam Altman, OpenAI cofounder Ilya Sutskever is in a sort of limbo, and nobody seems to know what will happen next.

Do The Limbo

After moving to oust Sam Altman, OpenAI cofounder and chief scientist Ilya Sutskever is in a sort of limbo, and nobody seems to know what will happen next.

As Business Insider reports based on interviews with people in the know — who spoke on the condition that their identities remain anonymous — it remains unclear what role Sutskever will play in the AI firm moving forward after turning on Altman just before OpenAI's Thanksgiving week massacre.

"Ilya is always going to have had an important role," one of those insiders said. "But, you know, there are a lot of other people who are picking up and taking that responsibility that historically Ilya had."

Ouch. Before the incredible failed coup at the company, Sutskever was far from a household name, and fewer still knew who he was before ChatGPT burst onto the scene a year ago.

Known primarily for his outlandish statements about algorithmic sentience, the Russian-born researcher is considered something of an "AI god" by his acolytes — and now is thought of as a traitor to others who think he won't be able to come back from voting alongside two fellow (and now former) OpenAI board members to fire Altman as CEO over vague accusations of dishonesty.

What's Going On

According to two insiders who spoke to BI, Sutskever hasn't been seen in the firm's San Francisco offices all week, and his position within the company is "to be determined," one of those sources said.

This isn't exactly surprising given that Altman hinted pretty explicitly in his note following his re-hiring as CEO that although he has "zero ill will" towards his fellow cofounder, the company is nevertheless "discussing how he can continue his work at OpenAI." In an interview with The Verge, however, the CEO did admit that he was "hurt and angry" that Sutskever had essentially shanked him Brutus-style.

Sutskever, for his part, has also been making some vague statements online suggesting continued tumult at OpenAI.

In one since-deleted tweet, he posted a reference to the memetic phrase "the beatings will continue until morale improves," which he said "applies more often than it has any right to." In another post made on his art Instagram, this one still up, he posted a stern-looking cloud head — though that one, at least, looks more like the artist himself than any of his coworkers.

As BI's sources described, the working relationship between Altman, Sutskever, and Greg Brockman — the other cofounder who resigned in solidarity with the CEO after his ouster, and who was brought back upon his return — has soured tremendously.

"Once trust is broken," one former staffer explained, "it cannot be regained."

More on OpenAI: Sam Altman's Right-Hand Man Says AI Is Overhyped

The post OpenAI Cofounder Who Pushed Out Sam Altman Is In a Confusing Limbo appeared first on Futurism.

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OpenAI Cofounder Who Pushed Out Sam Altman Is In a Confusing Limbo

Israels representative in New York resigned to protest Netanyahu. Now hes got some tough words for liberal New York Jews. – Forward

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Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip on Dec. 4, 2023. Photo by JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP via Getty Images)

By Jacob Kornbluh December 4, 2023

Asaf Zamir, the former Israeli consul general in New York, resigned in March rather than support the Israeli governments judicial overhaul plans. But he said some New York liberals are misguided in their opposition to Israels offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in massive civilian casualties.

Zamir, a Tel Aviv resident who is running for deputy mayor in upcoming municipal elections, singled out the progressive New York Jewish Agenda for supporting a statement signed by six Jewish elected officials saying they are deeply distressed by the military campaign and approach being taken by the Netanyahu government in Gaza.

When you take that stand, you are basically saying that Israel has a right to defend themselves, but cant do it in the way every other government in the world would, he said, during a calling it an anti-Israel position.

Zamir, now at the end of a five-day visit to the U.S., suggested that the same group would have condemned Israel had it acted in advance to thwart Hamas planto kill and kidnap thousands of Israeli civilians. We literally have to be raped and die and kidnapped before we have the right to retaliate, he said.

These critics, he said, should balance their sympathy for the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza with an understanding of Israels need to root out a terror network that has promised to attack again.

Phylisa Wisdom, NYJAs executive director, said that at a moment of real rising anti-Zionism and antisemitism it was both baffling and short-sighted that an Israeli leader would attack supportive progressive Jewish elected officials and organizations in the diaspora. She said the group is aligned with President Joe Bidens approach, supporting Israels right to defend its borders and citizens while expressing real concern over Palestinian civilian casualties.

After Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, the onset of Israels campaign in Gaza and the subsequent surge in antisemitic attacks targeting Jews in New York, Zamir made an usual offer to Israels government: to fill the yet unfilled consular job for a short period of time, unpaid.

He said proposed working within the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again because Israelis of all political stripes needed to pull together since the attack. Amid the mounting calls for a permanent cease-fire in the U.S., he thought he could be of help, but said he was not surprised that the government declined his offer.

It was not the Netanyahu-led government but its predecessor that selected Zamir as Israels representative in New York in 2021. He resigned amid spontaneous mass protests across Israel following the firing of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for refusing to support the governments judicial overhaul, which had riven Israeli society, with many considering it a blueprint for undermining democracy and further empowering right-wing parties.

Zamir has kept himself in the public eye since his resignation. In addition to running for office, he has increased his engagement on social media, conducting webinars with Jewish leaders and student organizations. And he recently returned to New York to speak with Jewish leaders and media.

Zamir said he is trying to rekindle efforts he launched during his tenure as consul to reconnect younger, more liberal-leaning American Jews to Israel particularly those who had distanced themselves from it because they disliked Netanyahus policies.

He said he sees American Jews who, still shocked and heartsick over Hamas massacres on Oct. 7, now feel hesitant to speak up for Israel because of the casualties in Gaza and the protests against Israel rocking American college campuses. Physically distant from Israel, he said, they struggle to fully comprehend the complexities Israelis face.

He said hes aiming, in his five-day visit to the U.S., to help younger American Jews understand what happened on Oct. 7 and why Israel must root out Hamas.

Zamir himself affiliates with the left in Israel. He said he has consistently voted for left-leaning parties and as a teenager played an active role in the International Center for Peace in the Middle East, a group comprised of both Jews and Palestinians. But its so clear this time that you have to be very cynical not to call it out as it is, he said.

At the start of the war, Zamir said he was pleased by Jewish Americans support for Israel, and in particular their work to push back against fringe progressive criticism of Israel and politicians and celebrities failures to condemn Hamas. But he said that in recent weeks, progressive American Jews, trying to maintain their standing in progressive circles, have been far quieter on Israels behalf. Many, he said, are condemning not just Hamas, but Israel.

Opting for a middle path during times of war is making a choice, Zamir said. Just like not voting for any candidate implies supporting the one you dislike. Saying both sides are not okay is giving a prize to the bad guy.

Zamir said hes worried that people will forget Oct. 7 in a few months and may revert to blaming Israel for antisemitism in the Diaspora. He suggested that Jewish Americans should follow President Joe Bidens approach to the war, and fully support Israels right to self defense.

I guess he knows something you guys dont, he said.

This post was updated to include a statement by the New York Jewish Agenda.

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Israels representative in New York resigned to protest Netanyahu. Now hes got some tough words for liberal New York Jews. - Forward